WILL they or won't they? That will be the question on theatregoers' lips this week when The Full Monty is staged for the first time in East Lancashire.

The story of six unemployed steel workers who get together to perform a one-off strip show was a major hit movie.

And now the stage musical version will be performed at Oswaldtwistle Civic Theatre by Accrington Theatre Group.

Just getting six actors together to take on the roles has been a huge challenge.

"Traditionally, there is always a shortage of men for productions," said the show's director Howard Raw, head of drama at Primet High School, Colne. "To find six who can sing, act, dance and be willing to strip has been a real struggle."

But after a series of open auditions and using his contacts around the amateur theatre scene in the North West, the intrepid six have been assembled and they can't wait for the show to start.

Three of the six have been in the show before - Simon Pickup, 30, who will play Dave and Mark Robinson, 40, who is Horse, both performed in Middleton, where they live, and Daniel Winter, 19, Malcolm in the show, was in a production in his home town of Oldham.

The three first-timers are Adam Whittle, 27, from Bolton as Gerry, Stephen Cant, 23, from Rishton as Ethan and Howard himself who will play Harold.

All admit to having made regular visits to the gym and watching what they eat in preparation for the roles.

Unlike the film version, set in Sheffield, the stage show is set in America, but the storyline is the same.

"The whole show rides along on the buzz of these six men from very different backgrounds finding a purpose and real friendship," said Howard.

"It is quite a gritty and earthy show and there is much more to it than the final scene."

Having been in the show before, Simon said: "You can feel the audience willing you along.

"No one's there to admire your bodies, thank goodness.

"It's all about them believing in the characters and going along with you."

Daniel, 19, added: "When there are people you know in the audience it really helps.

"They are there cheering for you and want you to succeed."

Director Howard said: "We have a nightclub-style setting to create an even better atmosphere.

"The band will be on the stage so there is no escape for us really, even if we turn our backs on the audience we will be facing the band."

But will they be brave enough to do The Full Monty?

"You'll just have to come along to find out," said Howard.

Accrington Theatre Group presents The Full Monty, Oswaldtwistle Civic Theatre, until Saturday, November 11. Tickets are from Accrington Tourist Information Centre on 01254 380293.